Gucci Chimes In for Change with Blake Lively

Here’s something I bet you don’t know: globally, 66 million girls are not in school, which means two-thirds of the world’s girls grow up to be illiterate women. Without education, many are pigeonholed into marriage at a young age (one-third are married before they’re 18). And in the wake of teenaged marriages comes another jarring statistic: 800 women die during pregnancy or childbirth every day. With those facts alone, it’s clear that women globally are still struggling for access to education, health, and justice.

Enter: Gucci Parfums____. Last year, in collaboration with Beyonce, Salma Hayek__,__and Gucci’s creative director, __Frida Giannini,__they said enough is enough. They created (the aptly named) __Chime for Change____—__the first crowdfunding site where people can make real change happen for girls and women all over the world. They have commited to donating $1 million to support the various Chime for Change projects through the sales of five designated iconic Gucci fragrances (available at Macy’s through June 30). With each purchase, a donation will be issued, and you choose which project will benefit (think: tetanus vaccine for two pregnant mothers in Cambodia, or two days of education, nourishment, and primary health care for a student in Kenya.).

And last night, Gucci kicked off the campaign with a $75,000 donation to projects selected by Gucci ambassador and actress Blake Lively____. “I am truly grateful to give back through an organization that provides programs for women and girls to prosper. I look forward to seeing the difference we all can make,” Lively said. Lively will support three projects across the pillars of education, health, and justice.

“A focus on girls’ and womens’ empowerment exists throughout Gucci’s DNA,” said Gucci’s creative director, Giannini. “It is our hope that through Chime for Change, the voices calling for change for girls and women become so loud that they can’t be ignored.”

It’s more than a purchase—it’s a step toward a better future. So, grab a fragrance and support the Gucci family's initiative to empower girls and women globally, or #Chimein via__Twitter____,__ because, as Chime for Change’s motto would suggest, none of us can move forward if half of us are held back.

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